David Irving out as Hammerheads head coach

David Irving, who led the Wilmington Hammerheads to a National Title in 2003, is out as head coach after 15 seasons with the organization.

Through a press release issued Thursday morning it was conveyed the parting was mutual.

"He [Irving] has contributed so much to the Hammerheads and the city of Wilmington, and for that we are very grateful. We wish David all the best and much success in the future."

Irving was unavailable for comment.

Irving will be replaced by technical director Carson Porter and GM Jason Arnold for the remainder of the 2014 season.

In 14 seasons with the Hammerheads Irving has led the team to one championship, and three regular season titles, and has compiled a 150-98-59 since 1999.

Irving did not accompany the team on its west coast road trip. After a loss on Wednesday, the Hammerheads have fallen to 6-7-8 overall and are well out of the playoff picture.

Since July 1 the Hammerheads have struggled going just 1-5-2 over the eight games. The team is currently in 12th place in the USL Pro Standings, and has lost five straight matches.

Irving, who is just the second head coach in Hammerheads franchise history, has been instrumental in the development of soccer in Wilmington as well as bringing the Hammerheads back after the franchise was removed from the United Soccer League in 2009.

The 63-year old led Wilmington to two league championship games, including the USL Second Division title in 2003. The Hammerheads also reached the quarterfinals of the US Open Cup in 2003, knocking off FC Dallas of MLS 4-1 in the fourth round. In 2011 Irving was inducted into the United Soccer Leagues Men's Hall of Fame.

Irving hails from Workington, England, and played in the English First Division before joining the North American Soccer League.